Weird Science invades for Spencer library program

Dr. Dino saved the best for last at the Nature’s Niche library program. Audience members were asked to help hold this snake. Are the two on the right end relieved that they don’t have to hold snake, or upset they could not. You be the judge.
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Harry Toufar/For News-Herald Media
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SPENCER – Summer days are upon us, which means the Spencer Branch of the Marathon County Public Library System will be sponsoring its summer reading programs.

Recently, Dr. Dino from Nature's Niche brought his "Creature Teachers" to Spencer Lions Shelter. Dr. Dino had a number of animals on hand that helped him with his presentation. Roaches, spiders, scorpions, salamanders, snakes, a rabbit and an alligator were some of the creatures that made the audience shriek with anticipation and excitement. For more than an hour, Dr. Dino shared his friends with the audience and shared some very interesting facts about them.

He started with the explanation of genes, telling the audience that genes (DNA) make everyone and everything unique and different. At a level the kids would understand, he talked about how altered genetics are changing the physical characteristics of some animals. Even though Dr. Dino did not have one with him, he shared a picture of a cat that glows. This was made possible by injecting DNA from a jellyfish into a cat. He also shared with us that the frog is the first cloned animal. Weird science indeed!

Many creatures' unique adaptations have been very helpful in the medical field. Nature's Niche shows creatures have been important to new scientific discoveries that help enhance our lives and possible future discoveries. Two examples he shared were the scorpion and lizard. A scorpion can be of help with cancer patients and lizards play a role in treating Lyme disease. Very interesting!

One key ingredient in Dr. Dino's presentation is that of audience participation. Kids got to hold roaches and lizards and even displayed a spider on the hat they were wearing. The adults even had the opportunity to participate. Three of us (yes, I did it, too) were asked to hold snakes and take them around for the kids to see. Mine was an albino snake. Considering I am not fond of snakes, I handled it quite well.

Two more programs are on the schedule for this summer. On July 8, children and their families are invited to receive "a big musical hug" from Tom Pease, a regionally renowned musician, storyteller and humorist! On July 23, Spy School gives kids in grades kindergarten through five the chance to engage their undercover curiosities with activities including secret messages, fingerprinting and more. Both of these programs start at 10 a.m.